4 February 2024 | The Namibia Media Trust (NMT) expresses its deepest condolences on the passing of President Dr. Hage Gottfried Geingob, President of the Republic of Namibia. In this sombre moment, it is essential to reflect on his profound commitment to press freedom, a cornerstone of his legacy that has positively shaped the media landscape in Namibia.
Moreover, our condolences extend to all Namibians. President Geingob’s impact on the nation is immeasurable, and his memory will endure through the progressive and positive changes he brought about during his tenure.
We recall very clearly how, on May 10, 2017, when he presided over the national World Press Freedom Day celebration and the launch of the revised Media Code of Ethics and Conduct for Namibian Print, Broadcast and Online Media, that President Geingob declared publicly that for as long as he is head of state, press freedom in Namibia is guaranteed. He remained true to his word, and was immensely proud of our country’s press freedom ranking as number 1 in Africa.
President Geingob’s vision for a free and vibrant press was not merely a professional stance but a reflection of his dedication to upholding democratic values. This is aptly displayed through the promulgation of our Access to Information law in 2022 – a vision that he first expressed in 1998 as then Prime Minister - and the immediate appropriation of resources to its implementation. His tireless efforts in promoting media freedom have contributed to the overall development of a society built on openness, accountability, and the free exchange of ideas. President Geingob’s tenure as the chairperson of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) marked a significant chapter in the organisation’s history. As we mourn his passing, we also recognise the void left in the regional landscape.
President Geingob’s contributions transcended national borders, and his legacy will be remembered not only within Namibia but across the entirety of SADC. His leadership served as a beacon of unity, and the region has lost a statesman whose dedication strengthened the bonds among member states, leaving a lasting impact on regional cooperation and cohesion.
As we mourn his loss, let us also extend our thoughts and condolences to his family, who shared in the sacrifices and triumphs of his public service. Their support undoubtedly played a crucial role in enabling President Geingob to navigate the complexities of leadership.
May they find solace in the outpouring of support, and may the people of Namibia and the entire SADC community draw strength from the legacy of a leader who championed freedom, justice, and progress.
With heartfelt sympathy,
Zoé Titus
Director
Enquiries: info@nmt.africa | www.nmt.africa
[Download NMT's Press Statement: https://www.civic264.org.na/images/pdf/2024/2/NMT_Statement_-_GeingobCondolences.pdf]